I must first tell you that throughout the years, up to that point, I had had more than a few "hard knocks" along the way, and was not entirely happy nor satisfied with how my life was shaping up. I felt that something was missing. During those rough periods, I did not blame nor question God as to why things were as they were. I always kept my faith and continued to pray for better things to come. Thank God, that day did come.

During the singing of a hymn on that morning, right out of the blue, I suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of peace, joy, warmth and love penetrate my whole being. It was as if something within me was saying that everything was going to be OK now, and at that point, tears of joy welled up.

Even though I felt so overwhelmed by that feeling, at the same time it was kind of scary because I didn't quite understand what had come over me. All I know was that it really felt good. I didn't see or hear anything but definitely felt the presence of someone or something. It was the most wonderful and powerful feeling that I've ever had.

Needless to say, I was a bit reluctant to tell anybody about it at first, although I was anxious and just "bursting" to share it with someone. I thought that if I told anybody, they would think that I had completely lost my mind (as some would), but eventually, I did tell Fr. Jim, whom I knew would understand, if anybody could. Since telling him about it, I did tell a couple of my friends, as well as one of my nieces. She also confessed to me at that time that she, too, had had a similar experience a few years ago, which was a relief to me, as it gave me more confidence in myself.

It has made such a profound difference in my life, in that I'm so much more outgoing, loving, caring, compassionate, tolerant and patient person, and I try to be nicer to everyone I meet, at all times. Of course, like everybody else, I'm not perfect, nor will I ever be, nor pretend to be. But I know I'm a much better person and all because of totally accepting Jesus Christ into my life, which is what I now know, happened that day.

I was always a firm believer, having been brought up in a Christian home, and have never questioned God's existence, but I was one of those who attended Church only sporadically and who thought that I didn't need to attend Church services in order to pray. This is true, in a way, because I did pray every day, anywhere and always have done so. I also know now that in order to be able to carry out the ministries in the way that God wants me to as a Christian, it is not only a pleasure for me to attend Church and give of myself in order to help others, which I find so very satisfying and fulfilling, but is also necessary.

I thank God every day for giving me the push that I needed to start attending Church services again on a regular basis and helping wherever and whenever I can (even if only in a small way). I can't adequately explain the feeling of pleasure and happiness I feel as a result of that experience which has stayed with me to this day. All I know and am sure of is that on that special day, I accpeted Jesus Christ into my life completely without question and as a result, my life has changed dramatically for the better.

I have found the missing link, so to speak; more balance, more gratitude and a much more positive outlook on life in general, as well as a definite change in interaction with people whom I deal with on a daily basis. To a certain extent, I've always had a great appreciation for life, nature, all of God's creations, etc., but now, that appreciation has been greatly intensified. I am so grateful for the many blessings that God has bestowed upon me and I will (with His help), continue to strive to be the best that I can be, in doing what I feel I've been called to do.

Thanks for letting me share this with you. May God bless you all.